Water Heater Question

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#1

Originally Posted By: Roger Getty
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I have a 7 year old 50 gallon Bradford White propane water heater that just recently has started not producing enough hot water. I drain a couple of gallons from the tank regularly to make sure there is no sediment build up. The water is always clear. What else could be causing this lack of hot water problem? Just 2 adults in the household now so I know that we’re not pushing the limits of a 50 gallon tank. Thanks for any advice.

#2

Originally Posted By: rcallis
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Sounds like maybe the dip tube is broken off. If the thermostat is working OK thats about all it could be.

#3

Originally Posted By: dvalley
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Roger,


Welcome to NACHI.

Is this an Electric WH?

If so, it sounds like one of the coils are out of commission.
Did you check the temp controls inside the covers?

If its Gas, ![](upload://aknpuDfhccrZKRyjQTQQ4l0sais.gif)

--
David Valley
MAB Member

Massachusetts Certified Home Inspections
http://www.masscertified.com

"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go."

#4

Originally Posted By: jpeck
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I believe David is referring to the bottom element.


When the top element goes, there is NO hot water.

--
Jerry Peck
South Florida

#5

Originally Posted By: kmcmahon
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Roger Getty wrote:
I have a 7 year old 50 gallon Bradford White propane water heater


--
Wisconsin Home Inspection, ABC Home Inspection LLC

Search the directory for a Wisconsin Home Inspector
#6

Originally Posted By: cmccann
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aiwebs_011.gif

–
NACHI MAB!

#7

Originally Posted By: jpeck
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kmcmahon wrote:
David, Jerry...

Roger Getty wrote:
I have a 7 year old 50 gallon Bradford White propane water heater


Kevin,

![icon_redface.gif](upload://f7DX2EWhmUfsDapWaYT3oJHMCj1.gif) Oops-a-daisy ![icon_redface.gif](upload://f7DX2EWhmUfsDapWaYT3oJHMCj1.gif) , I was reading and replying to the wrong thing the right way.

--
Jerry Peck
South Florida
#8

Originally Posted By: dvalley
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I must slow down and read the details.

Thanks, Kevin

Poor Roger still doesn't get an answer.

--
David Valley
MAB Member

Massachusetts Certified Home Inspections
http://www.masscertified.com

"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go."

#9

Originally Posted By: rmoore
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dvalley wrote:


Poor Roger still doesn't get an answer.


Actually...I think Reggie probably hit the nail on the head with the first reply. Bradford-White made water heaters with the defective "Perfection" dip tubes from 1993 through 1997 so Roger's 7 year old heater would just fall into that range.

Roger?write down your model and serial number and give Bradford-White a call at Technical Support: 800-334-3393 . I believe it?s too late to join the class action lawsuit these defective dip-tubes created but BW may still want to help you.

--
Richard Moore
Rest Assured Inspection Services
Seattle, WA
www.rainspect.com
#10

Originally Posted By: jsavino
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Check to see if the valve is fully opened at the propane tank.


The regulator may be obstructed.


Check for a blue flame at the burner. The orifice may be obstructed


The burner control may be malfunctioning.


What type of piping is being used to deliver the gas to the heater?


Is it copper, or steel. Is it exposed or buried?


How often do you get a delivery of gas?

–
John Savino


HomeWorks Inspection Services, LLC


St. James, NY


631.379.4241

#11

Originally Posted By: rrushing
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Sounds like a dip-tube issue. R. Moore and Reggie are steering you in the right direction.


While the regulator could be a factor, it is unlikley that it would maintain a constant heated temperature enough to be hot for awhile, then run out.

Rich